Patentable/Patents/US-11518545
US-11518545

Supplemental cooling unit prediction system

PublishedDecember 6, 2022
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Inventorsnot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

A method, apparatus, and system for managing a supplemental cooling unit. The process receives data for a supplemental cooling unit. The data comprises a pressure, a temperature, and a speed. The process generates a set of alerts based on the data for the supplemental cooling unit and a signature in the data.

Patent Claims
12 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the signature in the data identifies when the set of alerts should be generated based on increases in the pressure, increases in the temperature, and decreases in the speed.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for monitoring and generating alerts based on changes in pressure, temperature, and speed within a mechanical or industrial system. The system detects anomalies by analyzing sensor data and generates alerts when predefined conditions are met. Specifically, the system uses a signature embedded in the data to determine when alerts should be triggered based on increases in pressure, increases in temperature, and decreases in speed. The signature acts as a rule or threshold that defines the conditions under which alerts are generated, ensuring that only relevant or critical changes in the monitored parameters trigger notifications. This allows for early detection of potential failures or inefficiencies in the system, enabling timely maintenance or corrective actions. The system may be applied in various industrial applications, such as manufacturing, energy production, or transportation, where real-time monitoring of operational parameters is essential for safety and performance optimization. The invention improves upon existing monitoring systems by providing a more precise and context-aware alert mechanism, reducing false positives and ensuring that alerts are generated only when necessary.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The method of claim 1, wherein a first set of the data is received during a climb phase of flight of the aircraft and a second set of the data is received during a cruise phase of flight of the aircraft.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to aircraft flight data collection and analysis, specifically for improving flight performance by analyzing data captured during different flight phases. The method involves receiving flight data from an aircraft, where the data is segmented into at least two distinct sets based on the flight phase. A first set of data is collected during the climb phase of flight, capturing parameters such as engine performance, fuel consumption, and aerodynamic efficiency as the aircraft ascends. A second set of data is collected during the cruise phase, focusing on steady-state flight conditions where the aircraft maintains a constant altitude and speed. The collected data is then processed to identify performance trends, inefficiencies, or anomalies specific to each flight phase. The analysis may include comparing the climb and cruise data to historical benchmarks or operational thresholds to optimize fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, or enhance overall flight safety. The method may also involve integrating additional data sources, such as weather conditions or air traffic management systems, to provide a comprehensive assessment of flight performance. The segmented approach allows for targeted improvements in aircraft operations, ensuring better adherence to performance standards across different flight phases.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the data is one of a compressor outlet pressure for a compressor in the supplemental cooling unit, the temperature for a refrigerant fluid in the compressor, and the speed at which the compressor operates.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to monitoring and controlling a supplemental cooling unit, specifically focusing on compressor performance parameters. The system addresses the need for efficient and reliable operation of cooling units by tracking key compressor metrics to optimize performance and prevent failures. The method involves measuring and analyzing specific data points related to the compressor, including the outlet pressure of the compressor, the temperature of the refrigerant fluid within the compressor, and the operational speed of the compressor. These measurements are used to assess the compressor's condition, detect anomalies, and adjust operations to maintain optimal cooling efficiency. By continuously monitoring these parameters, the system ensures the cooling unit operates within safe and efficient limits, reducing energy consumption and extending the lifespan of the equipment. The invention is particularly useful in applications where precise temperature control and reliability are critical, such as in industrial or commercial cooling systems. The method provides a proactive approach to maintenance, allowing for early detection of potential issues before they escalate into costly failures.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The aircraft management system of claim 11, wherein the signature in the data is used to identify when the set of alerts should be generated based on increases in the pressure, increases in the temperature, and decreases in the speed.

Plain English Translation

An aircraft management system monitors and analyzes data from an aircraft to detect and alert operators to potential issues. The system processes sensor data, including pressure, temperature, and speed measurements, to identify abnormal conditions. A signature embedded in the data is used to determine when alerts should be triggered. Specifically, the system generates alerts when there are increases in pressure, increases in temperature, or decreases in speed, indicating potential malfunctions or unsafe operating conditions. The system may also include a data processing module that filters and validates the incoming data before analysis. Additionally, the system may compare the monitored data against predefined thresholds or historical data to assess deviations. Alerts are then transmitted to operators or maintenance personnel, allowing for timely intervention. The system enhances aircraft safety by providing early warnings of potential issues, reducing the risk of in-flight failures or accidents. The use of data signatures ensures accurate and reliable alert generation, minimizing false positives and ensuring effective monitoring.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The aircraft management system of claim 11, wherein in generating the set of alerts, the system manager generates a first alert using data and the signature in the data, wherein a first alert indicates a clog in a filter in the supplemental cooling unit.

Plain English Translation

The aircraft management system monitors and controls aircraft systems, including a supplemental cooling unit, to detect and alert operators to potential issues. The system collects data from various sensors and components, including the cooling unit, and analyzes this data to identify anomalies or malfunctions. A key feature is the ability to generate alerts based on detected issues, such as a clogged filter in the supplemental cooling unit. The system uses data signatures—unique patterns or characteristics in the sensor readings—to determine the nature of the problem. When a clog is detected, the system generates a specific alert indicating the issue, allowing maintenance crews to address it before it escalates. The system may also integrate with other aircraft systems to provide comprehensive monitoring and diagnostics, ensuring optimal performance and safety. This proactive approach helps prevent system failures and reduces downtime by enabling timely maintenance. The system's ability to analyze data in real-time and generate targeted alerts enhances operational efficiency and reliability in aircraft operations.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The aircraft management system of claim 13, wherein in generating the set of alerts, the system manager generates a second alert using the data and the signature in the data, wherein the second alert indicates that maintenance should be performed on the supplemental cooling unit.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The aircraft management system of claim 14, wherein the system manager schedules maintenance for the supplemental cooling unit in response to generating the second alert.

Plain English Translation

An aircraft management system monitors and controls aircraft systems, including a supplemental cooling unit. The system detects operational anomalies and generates alerts to notify maintenance personnel. The system includes sensors that monitor the cooling unit's performance, such as temperature, pressure, or airflow. A processor analyzes sensor data to determine if the cooling unit is operating outside predefined thresholds. If an anomaly is detected, the system generates a first alert to indicate an immediate issue requiring attention. If the anomaly persists or worsens, the system generates a second alert, indicating a more severe condition. In response to the second alert, the system automatically schedules maintenance for the cooling unit, ensuring timely repairs or adjustments to prevent further degradation. The system may also prioritize maintenance tasks based on the severity of the detected issue and the aircraft's operational status. This proactive approach reduces unplanned downtime and improves aircraft reliability. The system may integrate with existing aircraft maintenance databases to streamline scheduling and record-keeping.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The aircraft management system of claim 14, wherein the system manager isolates the supplemental cooling unit in response to generating the second alert.

Plain English Translation

An aircraft management system monitors and controls aircraft systems, including cooling units. The system detects faults or performance issues in cooling units and generates alerts to notify operators. The system includes a supplemental cooling unit that provides additional cooling capacity when needed. When the system detects a fault or performance issue in the supplemental cooling unit, it generates a second alert. In response to this second alert, the system manager isolates the supplemental cooling unit to prevent further issues or damage. Isolation may involve shutting down the unit, disconnecting it from the aircraft's cooling network, or taking other corrective actions to ensure safe operation. The system ensures that the aircraft's cooling requirements are met while minimizing risks associated with faulty cooling units. The system may also log the fault for maintenance purposes and provide recommendations for corrective actions. This approach improves aircraft safety and reliability by proactively managing cooling system performance.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The aircraft management system of claim 11, wherein a first set of the data is received during a climb phase of flight of the aircraft and a second set of the data is received during a cruise phase of flight of the aircraft.

Plain English Translation

An aircraft management system collects and processes flight data to optimize aircraft performance and operations. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing large volumes of flight data across different phases of flight, ensuring accurate performance monitoring and decision-making. The system receives flight data from various sources, including aircraft sensors and external systems, and categorizes the data based on the flight phase. During the climb phase, a first set of data is collected, which may include parameters such as altitude, speed, and engine performance metrics. During the cruise phase, a second set of data is collected, which may include fuel consumption, aerodynamic efficiency, and environmental conditions. The system processes this phase-specific data to generate insights, such as fuel efficiency recommendations, performance adjustments, and maintenance alerts. By distinguishing between climb and cruise phase data, the system enhances the accuracy of performance analysis and enables more targeted optimizations. The system may also integrate historical data and predictive algorithms to further refine its recommendations. This approach ensures that aircraft operations are continuously monitored and adjusted for optimal efficiency and safety.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The aircraft management system of claim 11, wherein the system manager identifies the signature in the data indicating when a nonconformance mode is present in the supplemental cooling unit, wherein the signature in the data includes values for at least one of the pressure, the temperature, or the speed that results in generating the set of alerts.

Plain English Translation

An aircraft management system monitors and controls aircraft systems, including supplemental cooling units, to detect and respond to operational anomalies. The system collects data from various sensors, including pressure, temperature, and speed measurements, to assess the performance of the cooling unit. A system manager analyzes this data to identify specific signatures—unique patterns or values in the measurements—that indicate a nonconformance mode, such as a malfunction or inefficiency in the cooling unit. When such a signature is detected, the system generates a set of alerts to notify operators or maintenance personnel of the issue. These alerts may trigger corrective actions, such as adjusting cooling unit operations or scheduling maintenance. The system ensures timely detection and response to cooling unit anomalies, improving aircraft safety and operational reliability. The solution automates the monitoring process, reducing the need for manual inspections and minimizing the risk of undetected failures.

Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The aircraft management system of claim 11, wherein the data is one of a compressor outlet pressure for a compressor in the supplemental cooling unit, the temperature for a refrigerant fluid in the compressor, and the speed at which the compressor operates.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an aircraft management system designed to monitor and control a supplemental cooling unit (SCU) used in aircraft. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing cooling operations in aircraft, particularly in maintaining optimal performance of the SCU, which is critical for thermal regulation. The system collects and processes real-time data from the SCU to ensure proper functioning and prevent overheating or inefficiencies. The system specifically monitors key operational parameters of the SCU, including the compressor outlet pressure, the temperature of the refrigerant fluid within the compressor, and the rotational speed of the compressor. These parameters are critical for assessing the performance and health of the cooling unit. By continuously tracking these variables, the system can detect anomalies, optimize cooling efficiency, and prevent potential failures. The data is used to adjust the operation of the SCU dynamically, ensuring that cooling demands are met while minimizing energy consumption and wear on components. This proactive approach enhances reliability and reduces maintenance costs for aircraft cooling systems. The system integrates seamlessly with existing aircraft avionics, providing pilots and maintenance crews with actionable insights for improved operational safety and efficiency.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The aircraft management system of claim 13, wherein in generating the set of alerts, the system manager generates a second alert using the data and the signature in the data, wherein the second alert provides a maintenance window for performing maintenance on the supplemental cooling unit.

Plain English Translation

An aircraft management system monitors and maintains aircraft systems, including supplemental cooling units. The system collects operational data from various aircraft components and analyzes this data to detect anomalies or potential issues. A key feature is the generation of alerts based on the collected data and predefined signatures (patterns or thresholds) associated with the data. These alerts provide actionable insights, such as identifying when maintenance is required. Specifically, the system generates a maintenance alert for a supplemental cooling unit, which includes a recommended maintenance window. This alert helps schedule maintenance during optimal times, minimizing disruptions to aircraft operations. The system ensures timely maintenance by correlating real-time data with known failure patterns, improving reliability and reducing downtime. The solution addresses the challenge of proactive maintenance in aircraft systems, where unscheduled downtime can be costly and dangerous. By automating alert generation and providing clear maintenance timelines, the system enhances operational efficiency and safety.

Classification Codes (CPC)

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Patent Metadata

Filing Date

November 22, 2019

Publication Date

December 6, 2022

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